Embassy of Switzerland (North Macedonia)

Switzerland has supported North Macedonia’s political, social and economic transition processes since 1992. This cooperation is grounded in Switzerland’s tradition of solidarity and responsibility, and reflects the importance that Switzerland places on the stability and the prosperity of the Western Balkans. Today Switzerland ranks among North Macedonia’s largest bilateral cooperation partners.

The current goals, themes and working modalities of the Swiss engagement in North Macedonia are defined in a document titled Swiss Cooperation Strategy North Macedonia 2017-2020. This strategy was prepared in close coordination with our partners in North Macedonia and approved by the Swiss government. The financial commitments for the period 2017 to 2020 amount to 76 million Swiss francs.

The overall goal of Switzerland’s cooperation for the period 2017 to 2020 is to support North Macedonia in its reforms to meet European standards and to build a socially-inclusive democracy and market economy, while ensuring sound governance of natural resources.

This goal is closely aligned with the priorities and national development policies of North Macedonia, with the reforms required for North Macedonia’s accession to the EU, as well as with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

The thematic portfolio focuses on three domains of interventions:

Democratic governance
Employment and economic development
Infrastructure and environment 
Switzerland’s work is grounded in formal agreements with the authorities of North Macedonia  and requires co-funding wherever possible. Civil society organizations are important partners for Switzerland, as they represent the needs and aspirations of the people. Partnerships with the private sector are also cultivated as vectors for development and innovation, especially in the field of economic development.

Our support is mainly provided through projects executed by local and international implementers. In both our programming and operations, particular attention is given to transversal themes: gender equality, good governance, social inclusion and conflict sensitivity.